How to Start a Business in the Netherlands

Residency Conditions

To start a business in the Netherlands, ensure you meet the residency requirements.

• Ensure you meet the conditions for staying in the Netherlands.
• Non-EU citizens may need a temporary (MVV) and permanent residence permit.
• You need a Dutch address and a business bank account (IBAN).

Business Plan

A business plan is not mandatory but helps in understanding costs and profits.

• Not mandatory but helpful for understanding costs and profits.
• Useful for presenting to investors.
• Read more about writing a business plan.

Market Research

Conduct market research to analyze competition and entry strategies.

• Analyze competition and market entry strategies.
• Use tools like KVK Company Counter to check competitors.

Financial Plan

Create a financial plan to determine your funding needs and profitability.

• Determine how much money you need and if you need financing.
• Assess profitability in advance.
• Read more about writing a financial plan.

Trade Name

Choose a unique and memorable trade name for your business.

• Select a unique and memorable company name.
• Check if the name already exists on KVK.nl.

Legal Structure

Select the appropriate legal structure for your business.

• Choose a legal business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, BV).
• Use the Tool for choosing a Dutch legal structure for guidance.

Business Records

Maintain proper business records as required by law.

• Maintain records as required by the Netherlands Tax Administration.
• Keep records for 7 years.
• Track hours to qualify for tax benefits.
• Read more about keeping business records.

Terms and Insurance

Set up terms and conditions and get necessary insurance.

• Set up general terms and conditions.
• Get business liability and disability insurance.
• Consider pension arrangements and security measures.
• Read more about business insurance.

Legal Requirements

Ensure compliance with all legal requirements for your business.

• Comply with industry-specific and location-specific rules.
• Ensure professional qualifications and environmental requirements are met.
• Read more about legal requirements.

Business Registration

Register your business with the Dutch Business Register at KVK.

• Register with the Dutch Business Register at KVK.
• KVK will pass your details to the Netherlands Tax Administration.
• Obtain VAT number and VAT ID if applicable.
• Read more about registering your business.

Finding Customers and Creating a Website

Build a website and network to find customers.

• Build a business website and network to find clients.
• Use tools like the KVK customer acquisition tool for help.

Additional Resources

Utilize additional resources and support from the Dutch government.

• Support from Dutch Government: KVK, Netherlands Tax Administration, Qredits, and CBS offer various forms of support.
• Specific Conditions: Different rules may apply if starting as a student, minor, or from unemployment benefits.